“They are coming in with a whole new attitude to make sure we’re on the edge,” Jennings said. “These freshmen have brought straight fire to the table. That’s something a little different. These guys are not afraid and they’re aiming high.”

Freshmen such as guard Trey Smith, tight end LaTrell Bumphus, defensive linemen Matthew Butler and Deandre Johnson, and tailbacks Ty Chandler and Timmy Jordan, all figure to play key reps.

Further, Jones’ approach to recruiting seems to be working for players and parents, as Tennessee currently has the No. 1-ranked 2018 class of commits among SEC teams.

Mike Griffith and WNML’s Josh Ward discussed the impact the 2017 class seems to be having on Tennessee’s Team 121 in fall drills in our podcast.